The Ultimate Career Guide for Nursing Assistants in Jackson, WY

Welcome to Jackson. If you're considering a move here as a Nursing Assistant (CNA), you're not just looking for a job—you're looking at a lifestyle. Jackson Hole isn't a typical American town. It's a world-renowned destination nestled in a valley, surrounded by mountains, and facing unique economic pressures. This guide is designed to give you the unvarnished, data-driven facts about your career prospects here, from the paycheck to the commute, written from the perspective of someone who knows this valley intimately.

Let's get one thing straight right away: the numbers show that Jackson offers a slightly lower median salary than the national average, but the cost of living (while high in perception) is actually below the U.S. average. The trade-off is a job market with very specific, high-demand employers and a lifestyle that can't be found anywhere else. The key to success here is knowing where to look and what to expect.

The Salary Picture: Where Jackson Stands

When you look at the raw numbers, the picture for a CNA in Jackson is clear. The median salary here is $35,438/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.04/hour. This is slightly under the national average for CNAs, which sits at $35,760/year. However, this median figure can be misleading because salaries can vary significantly based on employer, shift differentials, and experience.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what you can expect at different career stages in the Jackson area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Notes for Jackson
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	Often starts at the lower end, especially in private duty or smaller facilities. Union positions (like at St. John's) have a clear, higher starting wage.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$36,000 - $40,000	Increased shift differentials (nights/weekends) and potential for specialized roles start to kick in here.
Senior (8-15 years)	$40,000 - $45,000	Often involves charge CNA roles, training responsibilities, or positions in specialized units like rehab or memory care.
Expert (15+ years)	$45,000+	These roles are less common but exist in management support, clinic coordination, or with long-term private duty clients.

Comparing to Other Wyoming Cities:
Jackson's CNA salary is competitive within the state. While Cheyenne and Casper might have more openings and similar median salaries, Jackson's unique economy can sometimes offer higher wages in specific sectors (like hospital-based roles) to attract talent to a remote, high-cost area. The 10-year job growth for the region is projected at 4%, which is steady but not explosive. With only 21 jobs in the metro area listed at any given time, the market is tight but targeted.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. Earning a median salary of $35,438 means your monthly gross income is approximately $2,953. After federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare, you're looking at a take-home pay of roughly $2,350/month (this is an estimate; your specific withholdings will vary).

Now, let's factor in housing. The average 1-bedroom rent in Jackson is $921/month. This seems affordable on paper, but here's the insider tip: finding that average is a challenge. Market rates can be higher, and availability is extremely limited. A realistic monthly budget for a CNA in Jackson might look like this:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$2,953	Based on $35,438/year
Estimated Take-Home	$2,350	After taxes and deductions
Rent (1BR Average)	$921	Budget at least $1,000 for a realistic search
Utilities	$150 - $200	Electricity, gas, internet. Winter heating costs can spike.
Groceries	$300 - $400	Food prices are higher than the national average.
Car Payment/Insurance	$300 - $500	Essential in Jackson; public transport is limited.
Fuel	$100 - $150	Commutes can be long, especially in winter.
Miscellaneous/Debt	$200 - $300	Healthcare, personal care, student loans, etc.
Remaining	($121) to $379	This is the tight margin.

Can they afford to buy a home? In short, not on a CNA salary alone. The median home price in Jackson is well over $1 million. Homeownership is typically only feasible for dual-income households or those with significant capital. For a single CNA, renting is the primary and most realistic option. Your budget will be tight, but manageable with careful planning and potentially a roommate.

Where the Jobs Are: Jackson's Major Employers

The job market for CNAs in Jackson is dominated by a few key players. It's not a city with a sprawling medical district; rather, a handful of major employers serve the entire valley. Hiring is often seasonal, with a surge in the fall as they prepare for the busy winter season. Here are the primary places to look:

1. St. John's Health (St. John's Medical Center): This is the region's primary hospital and the largest single employer for healthcare workers. They operate a hospital, a birthing center, and several specialty clinics. They have a strong union (Teamsters Local 986) which negotiates clear wage scales and benefits. This is your most stable, best-paying option. They frequently hire for CNA roles in Med-Surg, the Emergency Department, and outpatient clinics.

2. The Grand Vista Senior Living (and other assisted living facilities): Jackson has a growing senior population, and facilities like Grand Vista (and others like The Legacy Lodge) are constant employers of CNAs for resident care. These roles often involve more routine daily care and can offer a predictable schedule, but may pay slightly less than the hospital.

3. Teton County Public Health: This agency runs various community health programs. While they may not always have "CNA" specific postings, they sometimes hire for roles in home visits, community outreach, and patient assistance that require a CNA license. It's a great way to get into public health.

4. Home Health Agencies (e.g., Mountain Home Health, Laramie County Home Health): Several agencies service the valley, providing in-home care. These roles offer more autonomy and a different pace but can have variable hours. This is a common path for CNAs seeking more flexibility.

5. Private Duty Clients: This is the "insider" path. Wealthy seasonal residents and retirees often hire private CNAs for full-time or part-time in-home care. These jobs are rarely advertised publicly and are found through networking, word-of-mouth, and connections with local clinics. Pay can be higher than facility work, but benefits are typically non-existent.

6. Jackson Hole Community Health Center: A Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) that provides primary care to all, regardless of ability to pay. They sometimes have openings for Medical Assistants or similar roles that a CNA could fill, especially with additional training.

Hiring Trends: The market is cyclical. The biggest hiring surges happen in August-October as facilities staff up for the winter influx of seasonal residents and tourists. The summer is a slower period for hiring. Being available for night and weekend shifts significantly increases your chances of being hired.

Getting Licensed in Wyoming

Wyoming has a straightforward but mandatory process to practice as a CNA. You cannot work as a CNA without being listed on the state registry.

State-Specific Requirements & Process:

1. Complete a State-Approved Training Program: You must complete at least 120 hours of training (75 hours of classroom/theory and 45 hours of clinicals). There are several approved programs in the state, though the closest major options are in Cheyenne or Casper. Some community colleges in the region may offer hybrid programs.
2. Pass the Competency Exam: After completing your training, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) or the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP). The NNAAP is the more common route for CNAs.
3. Submit Application to Wyoming State Board of Nursing: Once you pass the exam, you apply to be listed on the Wyoming Nurse Aide Registry. The application fee is typically under $100.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Training Program: 4-8 weeks (full-time) to 6-12 months (part-time).
• Exam Scheduling: 2-4 weeks after program completion.
• License Processing: 2-6 weeks after exam results.
• Total Time: Expect a 2 to 4-month process from the start of training to being registry-ready. Costs for training can range from $800 to $1,800, so research financial aid options.

Best Neighborhoods for Nursing Assistant (CNA)s

Choosing where to live in Jackson is about balancing commute, cost, and community. The entire valley is interconnected, but these are the main residential areas:

1. Town of Jackson: This is the commercial and residential heart. You'll be close to St. John's Hospital and many clinics. Commute is walking or biking distance for many. However, it's the most expensive area for rent. A 1BR apartment will likely be $1,200-$1,600/month. The vibe is bustling, tourist-heavy in summer, and has a small-town feel with restaurants and shops.

2. East Jackson (Rafter J, Sagebrush Flats): A popular area for locals and families. It's a short, 5-10 minute drive to downtown Jackson. Offers more single-family homes and townhouses. Rent for a 1BR in a shared house or townhome is more manageable, around $900-$1,300/month. The commute is easy, and you have quick access to the grocery stores and amenities.

3. Teton Village: Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. This is a luxury, high-rent district primarily for seasonal workers and affluent residents. Rent is exorbitant, often $2,000+ for a 1BR, and jobs are scarce for CNAs here unless you work for a private client. The commute to town is 15 minutes, but traffic can be heavy during peak season.

4. Alta/Hoback Canyon: This area is south of Jackson, towards the Hoback Canyon. It's more rural and offers lower rents, potentially for a 2BR house. You might find a 1BR for $800-$1,100/month. The trade-off is a longer, often icy, winter commute (20-30 minutes) to town. It's ideal for those who want more space and don't mind the drive.

5. Victor, ID (Across the State Line): A growing community just 20 minutes over Teton Pass. Many Jackson workers live here for significantly lower rents (a 1BR can be $700-$950/month). The commute is scenic but can be treacherous in winter (you must have 4WD and patience). It offers a quieter, more residential feel with a growing local scene.

The Long Game: Career Growth

While the base CNA role may have a ceiling, there are pathways for advancement in Jackson, often requiring additional certification.

• Specialty Premiums: In hospitals like St. John's, CNAs with certifications in areas like Phlebotomy, EKG Technician, or Medical Assistant duties can sometimes qualify for higher pay scales or be eligible for more specialized roles (e.g., CNA in the infusion center).
• Advancement Paths: The most common path is to use your CNA experience as a stepping stone to further education. Many local CNAs work while pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) at a community college (like Central Wyoming College in Riverton, which may have online/hybrid options) to become a Registered Nurse (RN). An RN in Jackson can earn $60,000 - $85,000+, significantly changing the financial equation.
• 10-Year Outlook: The 4% job growth is steady, not explosive. The aging population will keep demand for CNAs stable. However, the growth will be in specialized care (geriatrics, home health) and in supporting roles for the expanding hospital and clinic system. The key to longevity is flexibility and a willingness to adapt to the valley's seasonal rhythm.

The Verdict: Is Jackson Right for You?

This isn't a decision to be made lightly. Jackson offers a unique quality of life but comes with distinct professional and financial challenges.

Pros	Cons
Unmatched Natural Beauty: Access to Grand Teton National Park, skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation.	High Cost of Living (in reality): While the index is below average, housing is the single biggest challenge. Salaries don't keep pace with local housing costs.
Stable Employers: A few major, reputable employers like St. John's Health offer good benefits and stability.	Very Limited Job Market: Only 21 jobs in the metro area. You can't job-hop easily; you must be selective and patient.
Unique Community: A mix of permanent locals, seasonal workers, and international visitors creates a dynamic, if transient, social scene.	Seasonal Economy: Work can be inconsistent in the off-season (spring/fall). You must budget for lean months.
Lower Overall Cost of Living (Index): Compared to the national average, groceries and some services are cheaper.	Isolation & Weather: Winters are long and harsh. The town can feel isolated, and travel is expensive.

Final Recommendation: Jackson is a viable option for a CNA if:

• You have a strong passion for the outdoors and a resilient, flexible mindset.
• You are financially prepared to rent, likely with a roommate or in a shared house, and budget tightly.
• You have secured a job offer before moving, ideally at St. John's Health.
• You view the move as a lifestyle choice, not just a career step, for at least 2-3 years.

If you are looking for rapid career advancement, high salary growth, or a low-stress housing market, Jackson will be a difficult fit.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find housing as a single CNA in Jackson?
A: No, it is the single biggest challenge. The vacancy rate is extremely low. You must start your housing search the moment you have a job offer. Use local Facebook groups (e.g., "Jackson Hole Housing," "JH Rentals") and network with future coworkers. Be prepared for a roommate situation.

Q: What is the winter commute like for healthcare workers?
A: It can be challenging. Roads are plowed, but ice and snow are constant. A reliable vehicle with 4WD is non-negotiable. Allow extra travel time, especially for early morning or late-night shifts. St. John's often has resources for staff during severe weather.

Q: Can I get a job at St. John's without Wyoming certification?
A: No. You must be listed on the Wyoming Nurse Aide Registry before you can be hired as a CNA. The only possible exception is if they hire you in a non-CNA role (e.g., patient transport) while you complete your certification.

Q: Are there opportunities for overtime?
A: Yes, especially at the hospital. Staffing needs can lead to opportunities for extra shifts, particularly during seasonal peaks and in departments that are short-staffed. This can be a crucial way to supplement your income.

Q: What's the social scene like for a young professional?
A: It's what you make it. The social scene revolves heavily around outdoor activities, restaurants, and community events. It can be hard to break in as a newcomer, but joining recreational leagues (volleyball, soccer) or volunteering are great ways to meet people. Be prepared for a more transient population.